How to Set Up the MOTU M2 for Vocals

The MOTU M2 is an interface with two inputs and a color screen with meters. Here's how to set it up properly for recording your vocals.

1. Connect it and the driver

Connect the M2 to your computer. It's powered over USB, so you don't need an adapter. On a Mac it works right away without a driver, according to MOTU. On Windows, install the MOTU driver. That gives you ASIO. Then choose the MOTU driver in your DAW.

2. Mic in input 1

On the front are two combo inputs for an XLR or jack cable. Connect your mic to input 1 with an XLR cable.

3. 48V per input

On the M2, each input has its own 48V button. So you only turn on phantom power where you need it:

• Condenser mic, like a RØDE NT1 or Audio-Technica AT2020: 48V on.
• Dynamic mic, like a Shure SM58: not needed.

4. Set your gain with the screen

Each input has its own gain knob. The screen shows you right away how hot your signal is. Rap or sing your loudest part and turn the gain up until you're solid, but never hitting the max. You can't fix a clipped recording afterwards.

The M2 gives up to about 60 dB of gain. That's right around what Shure mentions for the SM7B: about 60 dB. How far you really need to go depends on your voice and your distance, though. Read Shure SM7B too quiet? for what to do if it's still too quiet.

5. MON: hear yourself without delay

Each input has a MON button for direct monitoring. Turn it on and you hear your mic straight through the M2, without the signal going through your computer first. So no delay, but no effects either. Turn off monitoring on your track in your DAW, or you'll hear yourself twice.

Want to hear your effects while recording, like autotune? Then turn MON off, listen through your DAW and set your buffer as low as your computer can handle. Also read how to fix latency when recording.

6. Headphones

The headphone output has its own volume knob. Use closed-back headphones when you record, so the beat doesn't leak into your mic.

7. Choose the input in your DAW

Create a mono audio track in your DAW and choose input 1. Step-by-step guides:

• how to record vocals in Ableton Live
• how to record vocals in GarageBand on Mac

Still choosing an interface? Read how to set up the Scarlett 2i2, how to set up the Audient EVO 4 and how to set up the PreSonus AudioBox USB 96. Need a beat? Browse all beats.

FAQ

Does the MOTU M2 need a driver?

Not on a Mac. On Windows, install the MOTU driver for ASIO.

Why do I hear myself twice?

MON is probably on on the M2 and you're also listening through your DAW. Turn one of them off.

Is the MOTU M2 enough for an SM7B?

The M2 gives up to 60 dB of gain, and Shure mentions around 60 dB for the SM7B. So it's tight but doable. If you rap quietly or at a distance, a booster can still help.

Source: MOTU's specifications for the M2, and Shure on the SM7B.